TRAVEL TO:
Andes Mountains, Ecuador
Come see where the towering Andes Mountains intersect with the wilds of the Amazon jungle.
Discover the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty on this 8-day tour of Cuenca, Ecuador, and its stunning surroundings. Explore Cuenca’s historic center, marvel at the ancient Ingapirca ruins, and hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Cajas National Park, home to shimmering lakes and unique wildlife.
Journey rainforest for an unforgettable adventure, including jungle treks, canoe rides, and visits to indigenous communities. Along the way, immerse yourself in Ecuador’s rich culture, sample local cuisine, and relax in thermal springs
This tour offers an ideal mix of mountain and jungle experiences, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Itinerary
Day 1
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Arrive in Cuenca, the third-largest city in Ecuador, known for its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and rich cultural history. Get settled and checked into your hotel. Meet up for a welcome reception downtown under the city lights!
Day 3
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Head out early for a full-day excursion to Cajas National Park, located about 30 minutes from Cuenca. This park is famous for its stunning landscapes, including high-altitude lakes, paramo grasslands, and endemic flora and fauna. Go on a guided hike through the park’s trails (easy to challenging), or opt for a nature walk around the Laguna Toreadora, one of the park’s main attractions. The area offers incredible opportunities for birdwatching, including sightings of Andean condors and other native species. After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, then return to Cuenca in the late afternoon. Relax and unwind in Cuenca, with a leisurely dinner at one of the city's restaurants.
Day 5 - 6
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Cuenca to Loja offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring Loja’s colonial center and vibrant cultural attractions to hiking in the stunning Podocarpus National Park, you’ll have plenty to see and do in this charming Andean city. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking to enjoy Ecuadorian cuisine and coffee, Loja offers a memorable experience for all.
Upon arrival in Loja, head straight to the heart of the city, where the main attractions are easily accessible by foot.Begin your exploration at Parque Central, Loja’s main square, surrounded by colonial architecture, gardens, and fountains. This park is the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and take in the beauty of Loja's historic district. After lunch, take a short drive (about 15-20 minutes) to Podocarpus National Park, one of the most biodiverse parks in Ecuador. The park is home to tropical forests, cloud forests, and an array of wildlife, including bird species like the Andean cock-of-the-rock. After your nature excursion, head to Barrio El Valle, one of Loja’s charming neighborhoods. This area is known for its colonial architecture, colorful streets, and quiet ambiance. It's a pleasant place to stroll around, enjoy the local architecture, and stop for coffee or a dessert in one of the cafés.
Day 8
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Departure from Cuenca Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final stroll around Cuenca’s picturesque streets or a visit to the Cuenca Flower Market for last-minute souvenirs. Depart from Cuenca's Mariscal Lamar Airport (CUE) for your onward flight.
Day 2
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Begin your exploration with a walking city tour to get a feel of Cuenca’s historical center. Visit Parque Calderón, the New Cathedral, and the Old Cathedral (La Catedral Vieja), both significant landmarks of the city. Jump on a bus for a tour of Turi for panoramic views of the city. Then, take a trip to the nearby Chola Cuencana workshops, where local artisans craft the famous Panama hats (which originate from Ecuador). Enjoy dining at some famous local restaurants and for dinner try a traditional Ecuadorian dish, Cuy (guinea pig).
Day 4
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Located about 30 minutes outside of Cuenca, Piedra de Agua Fuente Termal is a hidden gem nestled in the hills, surrounded by nature. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into the property, which is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The thermal pools at Piedra de Agua are filled with naturally heated water from nearby volcanic springs, renowned for their healing properties. The water is rich in minerals which can help improve circulation, alleviate muscle tension, and promote relaxation. After enjoying the thermal pools and possibly a massage, head to the restaurant café. For a more holistic experience, some visitors enjoy spending time in the steam rooms or saunas, which complement the effects of the thermal baths by promoting detoxification and relaxation. After a full day of pampering, soaking in the therapeutic waters, and rejuvenating your mind and body, it’s time to check out and head back to Cuenca.
Day 7
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Return to Cuenca. Enjoy a final breakfast in Loja, then depart for Cuenca, making stops on the way to stretch your legs and explore the changing landscapes. Arrive back in Cuenca in the afternoon and check into your hotel. If you have time, you can revisit any areas of the city you might have missed. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a top one of Cuencas famous restaurants, celebrating the highlights of your tour one last time.
What's included
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Accommodations based on hand picked 4 and 5 Star Hotels
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Transportation throughout the entire trip
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Meals- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included plus one nice beverage at Dinner.
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Guided Tours through mountains and Jungles
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One basic Massage and Mud Bath.
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Two Trip Tranquilo Guides accompany you during the entire tour
What's not included
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Airfare
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Alcoholic beverages (1 included with every dinner meal)
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Any souvenirs
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Tips for deserving locals
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We take care of the rest!
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*Note: All tour pricing is based on sharing hotel rooms with another tour participant. If you are traveling alone and want your own room that is no problem, however, the overall price will need to be adjusted.
Hotels
All hotels are subject to change depending on availability when booking
Hotel Santa Lucía
Discover a refined escape in one of Ecuador’s most enchanting cities. Our hotel blends the timeless elegance and luxury that Cuenca is celebrated for with an unbeatable location just steps from the historic downtown. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, explore vibrant markets and boutique shops, and savor world-class dining at nearby restaurants—all right outside our doors.
Casa Bolívar Hotel Museo
Discover a place where the Andes meet the Amazon. Our hotel in Loja offers the perfect gateway to adventure—nestled in a peaceful setting right on the doorstep of the Amazon jungle. Wake up to fresh mountain air, the sounds of tropical birds, and sweeping views of lush greenery.
Step outside and you’re just moments away from the rainforest, where guided excursions bring you face-to-face with waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and vibrant jungle landscapes. Back at the hotel, enjoy comfortable rooms designed for relaxation, warm Ecuadorian hospitality, and locally inspired cuisine made from fresh regional ingredients.
Good Eating
Cuenca is as much a feast for the palate as it is for the eyes. The city blends Andean traditions with modern creativity, offering visitors an unforgettable culinary journey. Wander through local markets and you’ll find fresh tropical fruits, mountain-grown vegetables, and artisan cheeses. Street stalls tempt with piping hot humitas (corn cakes steamed in husks), crispy empanadas de viento dusted with sugar, and comforting bowls of mote pillo—a traditional dish of hominy corn sautéed with eggs and scallions.
For a heartier taste of Cuenca’s culture, savor cuy asado (roast guinea pig), a centuries-old delicacy, or indulge in hornado, slow-roasted pork with crunchy crackling. Pair your meal with freshly brewed Ecuadorian coffee or a glass of chicha de jora, a fermented corn drink that carries the spirit of the Andes.
Not to be overlooked, Cuenca’s thriving restaurant scene adds a modern flair—fusing Ecuadorian flavors with international techniques. Whether you’re sampling traditional dishes in a family-owned eatery or enjoying gourmet interpretations in a stylish café, Cuenca’s food is an adventure all its own.
